This month’s pharmacist spotlight features Brett Horyna of El Kan Drug in Liberal, Kan. Brett shared with us his journey to becoming a pharmacist, what he loves about his job, and advice he would offer future pharmacy owners. 

 

When did you realize that you wanted to become a pharmacist?

My roommate in college his father was an independent pharmacist. His name was Kent Richardson and he owned eight pharmacies in the Wichita area. He continually kept telling me that I needed to go into pharmacy that I would be much happier than being a pre-med major. So I switched, gave it a try, and I couldn’t be happier with where I am at and what I am doing.

What made you want to become an independent pharmacist?

My first job out of KU was working in retail pharmacy and I really love working retail. I realized quickly that growing a business was a great thing, but soon realized who was benefiting from all of this growth. I felt like I could do this on my own and I started looking for the right opportunity.

What do you find most rewarding about working in independent pharmacy?

The most rewarding part of being an independent is the relationships you can develop with your customers. My favorite place to work is checkout because I want to talk to the customers to know how they or their families are doing. I really enjoy that interaction and getting to know them on a personal level as well as trying to help them.

What advice would you offer to those who would like to potentially own an independent pharmacy one day?

My advice would be YES it is a scary jump especially if you just look at it on paper. But if you love working with people and have a lot of energy you can do it. There are so many opportunities out there and there are so many people that will help you if you reach out and use your resources.

What are you most proud of that your pharmacy has accomplished?

One day, the nurse from one of the elementary schools called down. One of the little girls was having trouble breathing and she had a prescription for an inhaler at another pharmacy. Mom was having trouble getting the paperwork and didn’t have insurance and couldn’t afford the prescription. So we transferred in the prescription, filled it for her, and took it down to school.

A few days later this little girl wrote us the nicest card and picture. I hung that up where I walk by so I can read it every day as a reminder that these little acts of kindness make a huge difference.